A recent study by Florida International University, dams along major rivers in the southern United States are driving native fish populations to extinction. Researchers examined more than 850 species of native fish and their traits, including fertility, lifespan, range of movement, and water flow needs. The study found that many species are unique to a specific region, or even body of water, making them vulnerable to habitat degradation from reduced water flows.[1]

According to the study, the large number of dams that are built close to one another in the southeast significantly impacts fish migration. The lack of mobility between local populations drives the risk of extinction for native fish in some areas, according to a study led by FIU ecologist, John Kominoski. Although dams are the primary method of containing flood waters and producing vast quantities of electricity, the restriction of water flows in rivers and streams are becoming a real problem for local fish populations.[2]

Speaking with FIU’s Institute of Water and Environment, Kominoski stated that “there are many factors influencing the likelihood of localized extinctions, but damns were consistently a contributor. It’s not a one-size-fits all scenario, and some species are more at risk than others.” As for the future, Kominoski is hoping the study will allow resource managers to better understand where extinction rates are high implement effective conservation strategies.[3]